NEWS IN BRIEF
Flagging peace
10/26/2003
Taking its cue from Italy, the Somerville Green-Rainbow Party is launching a peace flag campaign with the hope of spreading a message of peace about the situation in Iraq. ''It's an effort to start up a grass-roots peace flag movement," said Eli Beckerman, a member of the organization who was moved by the dozens of peace banners he saw in Italy while on a recent trip there. ''Peace from Every Balcony," as the movement is called in Italy, is being replicated, along with the name, in Somerville, said Beckerman. The effort is intended to signal solidarity with Italy while offering residents a chance to create dialogue about the situation overseas. Flags are available online at http://somerville.green-rainbow.org/peace, or by calling Beckerman at 617-821-1453.
Fraudulent learning
As a newly designated Certified Fraud Examiner, Shenandoah Titus said he's sure to put the credential to work for the city. Titus, who is the executive director of the Somerville Human Rights Commission, has been certified by the Texas-based Association of Certified Fraud Examiners to conduct investigations, obtain evidence, and conduct trainings regarding white-collar crime. Titus said his current position requires that he routinely investigate human rights complaints, potential police violations, and any potential misuse of funds. ''This is an extra credential in training," said Titus, noting that private and public fraud has become more publicized in recent years. ''It's a very broad thing that I can apply to my work here." Titus said the credential is awarded to individuals based on experience, character, education, and testing.
Women who write
McIntyre & Moore Booksellers is reaching out to women writers who are looking to network and find answers to their publishing woes. In conjunction with Table Talk Books, the Davis Square shop is hosting a forum on Nov. 5 at 7:30 p.m. to offer women writers and poets the opportunity to hear from published authors who have carved out success in various ways. ''A lot of people are having a hard time getting their work noticed," said Mary Curtin, events coordinator for the store. ''The whole idea is to get people thinking about writing and offer an exchange in dialogue." Author Lisa Borders and poet Wendy Mnookin will be part of a panel, while author Rachel Solar-Tuttle will be co-moderating. The evening is free, and a reception is scheduled to follow the discussion.
BRIDGET SAMBURG
Got a news item from Somerville? E-mail Bridget Samburg at BSamburg@comcast.net
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